No matter how much you hear about the awe-inspiring natural phenomena on this island on the edge of the Arctic circle, nothing can prepare you for the jaw-dropping spectacle that is Iceland. Dubbed “the Land of Fire and Ice”, this small island nation is characterised by contrasts and contradictions. It is a place where steaming geysers burst forth from icy glaciers, where molten hot lava spews out of icy snow-capped peaks, where the astonishing aurora borealis blaze across the night sky and where continuously dark winters are offset by summer’s magnificent midnight sun. With the exception of Reykjavik, the country’s population centres are small, with diminutive towns, fishing villages, farms and minute hamlets clustered along the coastal fringes. The interior, meanwhile, remains totally uninhabited. What the Icelanders lack in numbers, they certainly make up for in warmth, quirkiness, and boundless creativity. Add to this, one of the highest standards of living on earth and you have, quite simply, one of the world’s most intriguing destinations.
The Reykjanes (or Southern) Peninsula is located in the southwestern corner of Iceland. Home to Keflavík International Airport, the major point-of-entry for most visitors to the country, the Reykjanes Peninsula is far more than just a transit hub, boasting some stunning sights and attractions to explore. Don’t miss The Blue Lagoon, a world-famous geothermal health spa; the bubbling mud pools of Gunnuhver; or the Bridge Between Continents at Sandvik (a structure which straddles the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates). Other key sights include Viking World (near Reykjanesbaer), a fascinating museum with a full-size replica ship on display, and Keflavik’s Icelandic Museum of Rock ‘n’ Roll, a beautifully-designed exhibition space with funky, modern installations first opened in 2014.
While this Arab kingdom in Western Asia typically conjures up images of vast sprawling deserts, it is, in fact, a remarkably diverse destination offering ancient churches and castles, spectacular mountain scenery, and stunning beaches, as well as some famously friendly local inhabitants. Itinerary highlights include: the incredible Dead Sea; the 2000-year-old ‘lost city’ of Petra; and the famous Lawrence of Arabia trail, which takes visitors from the ruins of his fort at Azraq to the picturesque deserts of Wadi Rum. While Jordan’s long and fascinating history provides travellers with a host of intriguing historical and biblical sites, the country is certainly not stuck in the past. With its slew of modern luxury hotels, trendy restaurants and lively bars, the city serves as a great base to explore the many ancient sites. For a captivating destination full of natural, historical and cultural wonders, look no further than the enchanting nation of Jordan.
The city of Petra is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world and Jordan’s premier tourist attraction. Carved out of the mountains more than 2000 years ago by then Nabataean Arabs, Petra is a unique example of an astonishing ancient civilization. Petra is also known as the Rose City due to the colour of the stone from which it is carved and the Lost City as it remained unknown to the western world until1812. The first European to see it was a Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt who disguised himself as an Arab scholar. Petra was recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1985.
Mongolia is a fascinating ancient country famous for the Steppe, Genghis Khan, and spectacular natural scenery. Remote wilderness areas also feature an intriguing cultural history. Today over a million nomads continue to live the life of traditional herdsmen. Mongolia is still developing as a nation and, as a result, the infrastructure and amenities are basic outside the capital city of Ulaanbaatar. While visitors to the capital will find a range of luxury hotels, restaurants and facilities catering to all the needs of the modern traveller, the country’s primary drawcard is undoubtedly the exquisite stretches of remote countryside where outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a range of exhilarating adventures, such as horseriding across the Gobi desert, hiking, mountain biking or even a homestay in a traditional yurt.
Set in southern Mongolia, the Ömnögovi region is set in the heart of the Gobi Desert. Known for its rich mineral deposits, stark landscapes and fascinating culture, the area is a must-see for adventurers. It is the hottest and driest region within Mongolia. Visitors can look forward to visiting a wide range of attractions. It is Mongolia’s largest ‘aimag’- an administrative division. Explore the capital of Dalanzadgad, stay overnight in a Ger camp, and visit the many tourism highlights including the Flaming Cliffs, the Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park and Khongoryn Els - The Singing Sand Dunes.
Tucked away in the Himalayan Mountains, this enchanting nation’s natural landscape is dominated by eight of the world’s tallest peaks, including the iconic Mount Everest. In addition to the numerous ambitious climbers who flock here to face the challenge of climbing this majestic peak, Nepal attracts large numbers of eco-tourists eager to experience this intriguing country’s virtually untouched natural wonders including lush subtropical forests home to a range of exotic wildlife. Nepal’s cultural landscape is just as diverse as its natural one, playing host to an array of distinct ethnic groups. Other popular tourist highlights include: the capital city of Kathmandu with its exquisite temples and palaces; the sheer magnificence of Patan’s Golden Temple; Chitwan National Park, for its impressive scenery; and, of course, Bodnath, the nation’s most sacred Buddhist monument.
Tucked away in the Himalayan Mountains, this enchanting nation’s natural landscape is dominated by eight of the world’s tallest peaks, including the iconic Mount Everest. In addition to the numerous ambitious climbers who flock here to face the challenge of climbing this majestic peak, Nepal attracts large numbers of eco-tourists eager to experience this intriguing country’s virtually untouched natural wonders including lush subtropical forests home to a range of exotic wildlife. Nepal’s cultural landscape is just as diverse as its natural one, playing host to an array of distinct ethnic groups. Other popular tourist highlights include: the capital city of Kathmandu with its exquisite temples and palaces; the sheer magnificence of Patan’s Golden Temple; Chitwan National Park, for its impressive scenery; and, of course, Bodnath, the nation’s most sacred Buddhist monument.
The town of Dulikhel is set at the far east of the Kathmandu Valley. It’s one of the best spots in the country from which to admire the magnificence of these rugged peaks offering phenomenal views of the surroundings. There’s plenty more to enjoy here than just views though. This is an authentic Nepalese town where the culture and traditions of the local Newari people have stayed strong. There is a charming old town with two lovely temples in distinct Vishnu and Hari Siddhi styles, and a Kali temple set on a hilltop above the town, from where there are lovely views of Dulikhel and its surrounds.
Encompassing over 1000 coral islands that form about 25 natural atolls, the Maldives is separated from the rest of the world by the seemingly endless Indian Ocean, offering visitors a secluded little pocket of paradise. These exquisite tropical islands are best known for their white powder sand beaches, glistening blue lagoons and extensive reefs which are home to a diverse range of colourful marine life. The nation’s bustling capital of Male features an array of charming shops and restaurants as well as a busy fish market and a must-see 17th-century mosque known as Hukuru Miskiy which was constructed out of intricately carved white coral. Visitors will find plenty of activities to keep them entertained including: scuba diving, snorkelling, water skiing, stand up paddleboarding, spa visits, and hopping from one idyllic little island to the next.
Encompassing over 1000 coral islands that form about 25 natural atolls, the Maldives is separated from the rest of the world by the seemingly endless Indian Ocean, offering visitors a secluded little pocket of paradise. These exquisite tropical islands are best known for their white powder sand beaches, glistening blue lagoons and extensive reefs which are home to a diverse range of colourful marine life. The nation’s bustling capital of Male features an array of charming shops and restaurants as well as a busy fish market and a must-see 17th-century mosque known as Hukuru Miskiy which was constructed out of intricately carved white coral. Visitors will find plenty of activities to keep them entertained including: scuba diving, snorkelling, water skiing, stand up paddleboarding, spa visits, and hopping from one idyllic little island to the next.
Set at the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic oceans and backed by the iconic Table Mountain, the bustling city of Cape Town presents an alluring combination of drawcards. Incredible powdery white beaches, highly acclaimed wine routes, and astonishingly beautiful mountain trails surround a cosmopolitan hub. This diverse metropolis is filled with superb shops and restaurants, extraordinary heritage monuments, a multitude of entertainment venues, and a spectacular, chic waterfront harbour. Highlights include the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art; Table Mountain's jaw-dropping views; Boulders Beach, where penguins might swim right up to you in the warm Indian ocean waters; the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, where you can walk along a treetop canopy among incredible native flora or watch an open-air concert at the base of the mountain; Robben Island, where visitors can see the cell where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years; and many more.
Victoria Falls is one of the world’s most impressive waterfalls. It is set on the magnificent Zambezi River which creates the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. These spectacular falls can be easily visited and viewed from the Zimbabwean side. Considered to be the world’s widest waterfalls, Victoria Falls measures an impressive 1708 metres in width. The small town of Victoria Falls, which lies adjacent to the waterfalls, serves as a great base from which to explore the many attractions this area of Zimbabwe has to offer. The surrounding area provides a wide range of adrenalin-filled activities for adventure lovers. Visitors can look forward to an array of wonderful activities including: scenic flights, micro lighting, white water rafting, bungee jumping, kayaking, and once-in-a-lifetime expeditions into the incredible Chobe National Park.
Adjacent to the Kruger National Park, the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve is a private premier viewing destination. It was the first-ever private nature reserve established in South Africa. The landscape features 65 000 hectares of savannah-covered land interspersed with watering holes, dry river beds, Lowveld woodlands, and the perennial Sabi and Sand rivers. This spectacular reserve offers exceptional game viewing opportunities with frequent sightings of the renowned Big Five as well as cheetah, zebra, giraffe, and a variety of antelope. Visitors can enjoy excellent wildlife viewing, dining under the stars, guided bush walks and enjoying a stay in some of South Africa’s most luxurious safari lodges.
Ranging from balmy subtropical reaches in the north to the frosty Antarctic shores of the Patagonian south, Argentina is one of the world’s most geographically diverse countries. Its kaleidoscope of landscapes offers endless adventure and leisure opportunities, and this natural variety – coupled with its warm, animated locals, delectable carnivorous cuisine, and fascinating history – makes it a captivating and unforgettable travel destination. Allow yourself to be spellbound by the spectacular torrents of Iguazu Falls, the sprawling ski slopes of Bariloche, the vibrant capital of Buenos Aires, or the age-old Inca city of Humahuaca. Argentina has gifts to delight and mesmerize even the most seasoned explorer.
Situated deep in Patagonia’s snow-capped vistas, on the southern shore of Lake Argentino, El Calafate has become a key stopover for travellers headed to nearby Los Glaciares National Park. This icy wonderland is best known as the home of spectacular Perito Moreno glacier – a massive, shifting ice cap composed of dozens of smaller glaciers. Take a glacier tour, a helicopter ride, or a 4x4 excursion; hike and boat to your heart’s content; or visit one of the traditional ‘ranchos’ (estancias) to learn more about local culture (another great spot for this is the Centro de Interpretacíon Historico). A wonderful selection of restaurants and boutiques adds appeal; make sure to try the ‘alfajores’ cookies. Drink vodka, watch a movie, and learn all about ice at the impressive Glaciarium.
Favourably located on the Caribbean Sea, this spectacularly diverse Central American nation is characterised by lush forests, magnificent mangroves, a gloriously green mountainous interior, and a coastline dotted with innumerable islands. Populated by a wide range of ethnic groups including the Mayan, Mestizo, Garifuna, Creole, and Mennonite people, this relatively young country offers a captivating melting pot of cultures and traditions. The crystal clear waters, decorated with a profusion of marine life, offer a jaw-dropping setting for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. In the jungle, enjoy hiking, horseriding, or ziplining past exotic plants, animals, and birds. A world of historical treasure awaits in the fascinating Mayan ruins, which feature excavated tombs, intricate hieroglyphs, and towering stone temples, often providing panoramic views.
Favourably located on the Caribbean Sea, this spectacularly diverse Central American nation is characterised by lush forests, magnificent mangroves, a gloriously green mountainous interior, and a coastline dotted with innumerable islands. Populated by a wide range of ethnic groups including the Mayan, Mestizo, Garifuna, Creole, and Mennonite people, this relatively young country offers a captivating melting pot of cultures and traditions. The crystal clear waters, decorated with a profusion of marine life, offer a jaw-dropping setting for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. In the jungle, enjoy hiking, horseriding, or ziplining past exotic plants, animals, and birds. A world of historical treasure awaits in the fascinating Mayan ruins, which feature excavated tombs, intricate hieroglyphs, and towering stone temples, often providing panoramic views.
